A multi-agency security operation targeting suspected criminal gangs and their associates in Kondele, Kisumu County, has led to the arrest of a suspected gang member and the recovery of bhang, crude weapons, government stores and tactical equipment.
The intelligence-led operation involving officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), Administration Police Service (APS) and General Service Unit (GSU) intercepted a white Toyota Axio, registration number KCZ 808K, and arrested 34-year-old Franklin Okungu, alias “Ninjaman.”
Police believe Okungu is a gang member and an associate of Oliver Jaoko, alias “Olivetti.”
Following his arrest, Okungu led detectives to his residence in Manyatta, where officers recovered pouches containing arrows, three machetes and a customised metal club fitted with a screw-gear head.
Also recovered were military-style clothing and equipment, including jungle ground sheets, a red beret, tactical shirts and trousers, tactical shorts and a black military-style helmet.
Detectives also seized 16 cannabis-infused cookies, bhang, a diary containing handwritten notes on tactics and techniques, training manuals and other warfare-related material.
Crime Scene Investigators from the Nyanza Region processed and documented the scene, while an inventory of the recovered items was prepared and signed by the suspect.
Preliminary investigations indicate that Okungu was an instructor in a group known as “American Marines,” allegedly associated with Jaoko. Police say he trained members in the use of swords, pangas and machetes, as well as karate and other combat techniques.
Investigators further allege that the group initially comprised bouncers and youths who were mobilised and hired for various assignments before evolving into a group known as the “Summit Gang.”
Okungu is being processed for arraignment and is expected to face charges including robbery with violence, possession of public stores, possession of suspected stolen or unlawfully obtained property, possession of narcotic drugs and participation in organised criminal activity.
